Best Garage to Fix Your VW’s Damaged Camshaft Seal in Santa Barbara
26 Dec, 19
The camshaft of a Volkswagen vehicle serves a vital function: it opens and closes the necessary valves of the crankshaft in the engine to keep it running optimally. The camshaft can only properly do its job if the valve seal is working correctly. When the camshaft seals become damaged, you can expect some serious issues to arise that will affect your driving experience and could end up costing you thousands of dollars in repairs. Below, you will find some tips to help you avoid that disaster. We will give you the tools you need to recognize the warning signs of failure and also direct you where to go to patch up your VW before it drains your wallet.
Warning Signs of Camshaft Seal Failure in a VW
If the camshaft seal in your VW’s camshaft system is damaged, it will manifest itself in several ways. Your job is to pay close attention to your car and note anything that may change, even if it seems insignificant.
● The most apparent sign of camshaft seal failure is an oil leak. While this can happen for a variety of reasons, it is something to take note of in conjunction with any other symptoms. The oil leaks from the engine because the valve is not sealing and keeping it flowing in the right direction. Since your car’s oil lubricates all moving parts, the loss of it causes unnecessary friction and heat. As a result, other parts of your VW will suffer damage as well. Check under your car for leakage. Oil leaks will look black and slick.
● As you know, it’s never a good sign when smoke is coming from your vehicle’s engine. Camshaft seal damage can cause this to happen when your oil leaks. If the oil drips into the exhaust manifold or pipe, then it will produce smoke. Sometimes, the smoke will be thick; other times, it can be nearly invisible. Use your sense of smell as well as sight. If you smell smoke, something is wrong.
Why Camshaft Seals Get Prematurely Damaged
The camshaft seal in your VW vehicle should last for at least 80,000 miles. The part is made of sturdy rubber, and it’s harder to break. However, the nemesis of rubber is heat. While you drive, the various parts of your car will heat up. If you drive very often or push it too far, your seal will get damaged prematurely. Overheating due to other issues such as a coolant leak will contribute to this damage.
The Dangers of Prolonged Camshaft Seal Failure
It is always better to get your camshaft seal repaired sooner rather than later. While the broken seal may not immediately damage your engine, it certainly will over time. As more oil leaks from your car, your other auto parts will lose the lubrication they count on for proper functioning and longevity.
Too much heat and friction may cause your engine to catch fire. This is an extreme example, of course, but it’s a danger you should be aware of nonetheless. In the best case, your engine will be heavily damaged and will need replacing. As you know, it can cause a strain on your finances.
The Importance of Seeing an Automotive Specialist
In any case, you should see an automotive specialist regularly. They can perform preventative maintenance on your VW car to help you avoid issues like this from happening in the first place. If you need repairs, they can assist you in replacing and fixing your auto parts before issues pile up and cost more money.
Best Garage to Fix a Damaged Camshaft Seal
If your VW is experiencing any of the symptoms of 
camshaft seal failure, you will need assistance from the best technicians in your area. VW owners in Santa Barbara, CA can count on the automotive specialists at Santa Barbara Autowerks to provide the best care possible and get you back on the road in no time.
If you would like to make an appointment, call us at (805) 966-3200 or send your request and a description of the problem online. Our professionals at Santa Barbara Autowerks will be more than happy to answer your questions and assist you in the most efficient manner possible.